Interface, Other Manufacturers Launch Sustainabili
North Charleston, SC, September 15--Some of the world's leading building manufacturers are now on board with the Noisette Project - the $1 billion public-private effort to revitalize 3,000 acres in the urban core of North Charleston.
"It's the first time you've seen companies come together to support the redevelopment of a city," said John Knott in announcing the Noisette Urban Alliance.
The alliance is comprised of 15 manufacturers that make sustainable products - that is products that are efficient, durable and environmentally friendly. Sustainability is generally a way of balancing the environment, human well-being and economics in choices for living and building.
Knott, chief executive officer of the Noisette Co., said his company will use the products of those in the alliance as it redevelops about 300 acres in the Noisette footprint.
The Noisette project, named for noted local botanist Phillip Noisette, will create energy-efficient, environmentally sensitive homes in mixed-use neighborhoods during the next 20 years. Plans include construction of 3,000 homes at the north end of the old Charleston Naval Base.
A media briefing Tuesday was held in the Noisette Urban Alliance Studio, a place where the public, contractors and builders can come for information on sustainable building and the companies' products. Knott said the studio is a place to learn, not a dealer showroom.
The companies, selected by Noisette, include Andersen Windows, Carrier, Fireside Hearth & Home, Hanson Building Materials North America, Herman Miller, Hubbell Lighting and Interface.
The others are James Hardie Siding Products, Kohler, Owens Corning, Sherman Williams, ThermaTru Doors, Universal Forest Products, USG and Whirlpool.
"The biggest benefit to our community will be helping builders who are building new product in our community learn the best way to build," said North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey.
Summey said people moving into the area can visit the studio to find ways to renovate existing homes so they last longer and are more energy efficient.
"What we are doing today is not going to affect me nearly as much as my children in their lifetime and their children in their lifetime," Summey said.
"Noisette aspires to be the first sustainable city, but not the last," said Ray Anderson, the chief executive officer of Interface, which makes carpet and flooring products.
"A whole city's worth of carpet or a whole city's worth of furniture or air conditioners or appliances is an interesting proposition," he said. "But far more important than that is the influence this project can have across the globe."
He said the companies will have a chance to learn from each other.
"Noisette is a project you just want to be associated with," Anderson said. "It is the proving ground for the future. It is the new city template for sustainable society."
